Understanding Functional Nutrition: A Holistic Approach to Finding the Root Cause

Welcome to The Health Improvement Center blog! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of functional nutrition—a personalized and holistic approach to wellness that addresses the root causes of health issues by supporting the body’s natural functions. Functional nutrition focuses on finding what organs and glands are stressed and uses targeted nutrition to correct imbalances and promote optimal health. Let’s explore how this innovative approach works and the common stressors that can affect our organs and glands.

What is Functional Nutrition?

Functional nutrition is more than just eating a balanced diet. It’s a holistic approach that considers how stressed organs and glands create nutritional deficiencies and create dysfunction in your body’s biochemistry. By understanding these interactions, functional nutrition aims to support and enhance the function of your organs and glands, addressing the underlying causes of your health issues rather than merely treating symptoms.

How Functional Nutrition Works

1. Consultation:

   • The first step in a functional nutrition is a comprehensive consultation including a review of your medical history, lifestyle, diet, and the symptoms you are currently experiencing. 

2. Identifying Stressed Organs and Glands:

   • Next we do a thorough nutritional exam and an assessment of your autonomic nervous system which controls all your organs and glands. This is followed by an assessment to see what organs and glands are stressed, which of the six stressors (see below) are affecting them and thus what is contributing to your health concern. Identifying stressed organs is crucial for creating a targeted nutrition plan that addresses your specific nutritional needs. 

3. Personalized Nutrition Plan:

   • Based on the findings, a personalized nutrition plan is developed. This plan focuses on incorporating whole food nutrients and herbs that support the function of the stressed organs and glands. It may include specific dietary changes, supplements, and lifestyle recommendations to restore balance and promote healing.

Common Stressors Affecting Organs and Glands

Our bodies are constantly exposed to various stressors that can affect the health and function of our organs and glands. Here are six common stressors and how functional nutrition addresses them:

1. Food Allergies and Sensitivities:

   • Food allergies and sensitivities can cause inflammation and stress on the digestive system and other organs. Functional nutrition helps identify trigger foods and provides alternatives that reduce inflammation and support gut health.

2. Immune Challenges:

   • Chronic infections or immune system imbalances can put stress on the body’s organs and glands. Functional nutrition aims to strengthen the immune system with nutrient-rich foods and supplements that support immune function.

3. Heavy Metal and Chemical Toxicity:

   • Exposure to heavy metals and chemicals can accumulate in the body and impair organ function. Functional nutrition uses detoxifying supplements to help eliminate these toxins in addition to supporting your liver and kidney health.

4. Scars:

   • Physical scars, including surgical scars, can disrupt the body’s energy flow and affect organ function. Functional nutrition includes strategies to reduce scar tissue impact. 

5. Post-Pandemic Factors:

   • The stress and changes brought about by the pandemic have affected many people’s health. Functional nutrition addresses post-pandemic stress by supporting mental and physical health with targeted nutritional supplements and lifestyle changes.

Why Choose Functional Nutrition?

Functional nutrition offers a personalized, root-cause approach to health. By understanding and addressing the specific needs of your body, it provides a pathway to lasting wellness. Whether you’re dealing with chronic health issues or looking to optimize your overall well-being, functional nutrition can offer significant benefits.

Conclusion

Functional nutrition is a powerful tool for restoring and maintaining health by addressing the root causes of imbalances in the body. At The Health Improvement Center, we are committed to using functional nutrition to help you achieve optimal health and vitality. If you’re interested in learning more about how functional nutrition can benefit you, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Stay Healthy and Thrive,

Dr. Katie Thompson, DC, MSTN